Socket protection device, socket protection member, and pipe joining method

Abstract

The invention provides a pipe insertion protection member that prevents foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the pipe insertion opening during joining operations within a groove, and that can be easily attached to and detached from the pipe insertion opening. [Solution] The Socket Protection Device 100 includes a first half-split member 10 which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 so as to cover a part of the outer circumferential surface W111 of the Socket W11 of the pipe W1, a second half-split member 20 which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 so as to cover the remaining part of the outer circumferential surface W111 of the Socket W11 of the pipe W1, and a pipe gripping unit 1100 which acts as a drive unit to separate the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20, which form a ring when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 so as to cover the outer circumferential surface W111 of the Socket W1, so as to allow the pipe W1 to be inserted and removed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an insertion port protection device for a pipe to be joined to a joined pipe, an insertion port protection member, and a pipe joining method.

Background Art

[0002] For example, in the construction work of laying water pipes, a pipe joining operation for joining a pipe is performed on a joined pipe arranged in a trench in the ground. In this pipe joining operation, first, a pipe having an insertion port is suspended in a trench in which a joined pipe having a receiving port is arranged. Then, an operator aligns the pipe and the joined pipe in the trench and inserts the insertion port of the pipe into the receiving port of the joined pipe using a chain block or the like, and joins the insertion port and the receiving port.

[0003] Also, a sealing member for sealing between the inner peripheral surface of the receiving port and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port in the joined state of the pipe and the joined pipe is known. The sealing member is arranged, for example, in the receiving port of the joined pipe. Also, in the pipe joining operation, in order to reduce the insertion force when inserting the insertion port of the pipe into the joined pipe, for example, a lubricant is applied to the sealing member arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port of the pipe and in the receiving port of the joined pipe.

[0004] In the pipe joining operation, when suspending the pipe or the joined pipe in the trench and after suspension, foreign matters such as earth and sand may adhere to the insertion port. Also, when a long time has passed since the lubricant was applied to the outer peripheral surface of the pipe, the lubricant may dry and the lubricity of the lubricant may be impaired.

[0005] Also, there is a construction method in which a pipeline is formed in a pipeline laying pit formed horizontally from a launching shaft excavated on the ground using a shield tunneling machine or the like. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a pipe joining method in which a lubricant applied to a sealing member arranged in the insertion port of a front pipe or the receiving port of a joined pipe is covered with a curing member such as a film to prevent foreign matter from adhering or the lubricant from drying.

Prior Art Documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6956285 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] As described above, the pipe joining method described in Patent Document 1 is based on the premise that the work is performed in a pipeline laying tunnel formed laterally from a launching shaft using a shield drilling machine or the like. Specifically, in the pipe joining method described in Patent Document 1, a removal rope is attached by tape to a protective member that is attached so as to cover the lubricant applied to the outer surface of the pipe, and before inserting the pipe into the pipe to be joined, the protective member is removed from the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe by pulling the removal rope from the launching shaft side. For this reason, the pipe joining method described in Patent Document 1 does not envision pipe joining work in which the joining pipe is lowered into the groove where the pipe to be joined is located.

[0008] Therefore, in joining operations within grooves as described above, there is a need for a socket protection device that can prevent foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the pipe socket and that can be more easily attached to and detached from the pipe socket.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a pipe insertion protection device that can prevent foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the pipe insertion opening during joining work in a groove, and that can be easily attached to and detached from the pipe insertion opening. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] An insertion opening protection device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device for protecting the outer surface of the insertion opening of a pipe. The insertion opening protection device includes: a first half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover a part of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe; a second half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the remaining part of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe other than the part thereof; and a drive unit which brings the first half-split member and the second half-split member closer together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, while also separating the first half-split member and the second half-split member which form a ring so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe so as to allow the pipe to be inserted and removed (first configuration).

[0011] In the above configuration, the drive unit brings the first and second split members closer together so that they form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, thereby covering the outer surface of the pipe's insertion opening. As a result, the outer surface of the pipe's insertion opening can be protected by the first and second split members. This prevents foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the pipe's insertion opening during the joining process between the pipe and the pipe to be joined, which has a receiving opening into which the pipe's insertion opening is inserted.

[0012] Furthermore, the drive unit separates the first and second split members, which form a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface of the pipe's insertion opening, so that the pipe can be inserted and removed, thereby allowing the first and second split members to be easily attached to and removed from the pipe's insertion opening.

[0013] Therefore, according to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the pipe insertion opening during joining work in the groove, and to realize an insertion opening protection device that can be easily attached to and detached from the pipe insertion opening.

[0014] In the first configuration, the inner diameter of one of the first or second split member is larger than the outer diameter of the other of the first or second split member, and the circumferential ends of the first split member overlap with the circumferential ends of the second split member in the radial direction when the first and second split members are brought close together so as to form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe (second configuration).

[0015] In the above configuration, when the first and second split members are brought close together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, one end of the first or second split member covers the other end of the first or second split member.

[0016] Therefore, in the above configuration, since there is no joint between the first half-split member and the second half-split member, it becomes difficult for foreign matter to enter from between the first half-split member and the second half-split member.

[0017] In the second configuration, the first and second split members form a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface of the pipe opening, and further comprising a buffer member located between both ends of the first split member and both ends of the second split member, wherein the buffer member is attached to the inner circumference of one of the first and second split members that is located on the outer circumference (third configuration).

[0018] In the above configuration, when the first and second halves are brought close together to form a ring, the buffer member can seal the gap between the first and second halves. This prevents foreign matter from entering through the gap between the first and second halves.

[0019] In the first configuration, at least one of the first split member and the second split member has a displacement-permissible mechanism that allows the movement of the first split member and the second split member to be displaced in the radial direction of the pipe relative to the drive unit (fourth configuration).

[0020] According to the above configuration, when the driving unit brings the first half member and the second half member closer to each other so as to form an annulus when viewed in the axial direction of the tube, if the first half member and the second half member come into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the tube, the first half member and the second half member can be displaced in the radial direction of the tube.

[0021] Thereby, the driving unit can smoothly move the first half member and the second half member along the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port of the tube while displacing the first half member and the second half member in the radial direction of the tube, and can form an annulus so as to cover the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port of the tube.

[0022] Therefore, the operation of attaching the insertion port protection device to the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port of the tube can be made more efficient.

[0023] In the first configuration, at least one of the first half member and the second half member further has an end cover on the inner peripheral side for covering a part of the opening end of the insertion port of the tube (the fifth configuration).

[0024] In the above configuration, since a part of the opening end of the insertion port of the tube can be covered by the end cover, intrusion of foreign matters can be prevented or suppressed.

[0025] In the first configuration, the driving unit has a pair of claws that can be opened and closed provided on an attachment attached to the tip of the arm of the working machine, and an actuator that opens and closes the claws. By opening and closing the pair of claws by the actuator, the first half member and the second half member are brought closer to each other so as to form an annulus when viewed in the axial direction of the tube, or the first half member and the second half member that form an annulus so as to cover the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port of the tube are separated so that the tube can be taken out (the sixth configuration).

[0026] According to the above configuration, by opening and closing the pair of claws provided on the attachment of the working machine, the first half member and the second half member can be attached to or detached from the tube. Thereby, an insertion port protection device using the operation of the attachment of the working machine can be realized.

[0027] In the sixth configuration, there is a connecting member having one end connected to the drive part and extending in the axial direction of the tube, and the other end connected to the first half member and the second half member (seventh configuration).

[0028] According to the above configuration, the first half member and the second half member can be arranged at a position axially away from the drive part including the attachment. That is, according to the above configuration, in the tube joining operation, the drive part can be arranged at a position axially away from the opening end of the insertion port of the tube.

[0029] Therefore, a space can be provided between the drive part and the first half member and the second half member in the axial direction. Thereby, another machine or the like can be arranged in the space. For example, a joining device for joining a tube and a tube to be joined can be arranged in the space.

[0030] Thus, the design freedom of a working machine, a joining device, or the like can be improved.

[0031] In the seventh configuration, the connecting member has an axially extending portion extending in the axial direction of the tube and connected to the drive part at one end, and a cross-direction extending portion connected to the other end of the axially extending portion at one end, extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction, and connected to the first half member and the second half member at the other end. The first half member and the second half member are configured to be swingable about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction at at least one of the one end or the other end of the cross-direction extending portion (eighth configuration).

[0032] In the above configuration, the first half member and the second half member swing about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction at at least one of the one end or the other end of the cross-direction extending portion of the connecting member. Thereby, the first half member and the second half member can swing following the opening and closing operation of the attachment. Therefore, the attachment and detachment of the tube can be facilitated.

[0033] An insertion opening protection member according to one embodiment of the present invention is a member that protects the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of a pipe. The insertion opening protection member includes a first half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover a part of the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, and a second half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the remaining part of the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe. The first half-split member and the second half-split member are configured to be attached to a pair of claws of an attachment that is attached to the tip of the arm of a work machine, respectively, and by opening and closing the pair of claws, the first half-split member and the second half-split member are brought closer together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, or the first half-split member and the second half-split member which form a ring so as to cover the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe are separated so as to allow the pipe to be removed (9th configuration).

[0034] In the above configuration, the first and second split members can be attached to or removed from the pipe by opening and closing a pair of claws on the attachment of the work machine.

[0035] According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the pipe insertion opening during joining work in a groove, and to realize an insertion opening protection member that can be attached to and detached from the pipe insertion opening using the operation of an attachment of the work machine.

[0036] A pipe joining method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a method of joining a pipe and a pipe to be joined having a socket into which the slit of the pipe is inserted. The pipe joining method comprises: a slit protection member attachment step of attaching a slit protection member to the outer surface of the slit of the pipe to protect the outer surface of the slit of the pipe; a pipe installation step of installing the pipe with the slit protection member attached in a groove in which the pipe to be joined is located; a slit protection member removal step of removing the slit protection member from the pipe installed in the groove; and a joining step of joining the pipe to the pipe. The slit protection member comprises: a first half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover a part of the outer surface of the slit of the pipe; and a second half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the remaining part of the outer surface of the slit of the pipe other than the part of the outer surface. In the insertion opening protection member installation step, the first split member and the second split member are brought closer together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, covering the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe. In the insertion opening protection member removal step, the first split member and the second split member, which form a ring so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, are separated so as to allow the pipe to be removed, and then the first split member and the second split member are removed from the pipe (10th configuration).

[0037] With the above configuration, the Socket Protection Member can be easily attached to and detached from the Socket of the Pipe. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently perform the pipe joining work while preventing foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the Socket of the Pipe.

[0038] In the tenth configuration, the attachment is provided on the tip of the arm of the work machine, and the first split member is attached to one of a pair of openable and closable claws, and the second split member is attached to the other claw. In the insertion opening protection member attachment step, the pipe is gripped by closing the open claws, and the first split member and the second split member are brought closer together to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, covering the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe. In the insertion opening protection member removal step, the grip on the pipe is released by opening the closed claws, and the first split member and the second split member, which form a ring to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, are separated so that the pipe can be removed, and then the attachment is moved out of the groove to remove the first split member and the second split member from the pipe (eleventh configuration).

[0039] With the above configuration, the Socket Protection Member can be easily attached to and detached from the Socket of the Pipe. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently perform pipe joining work while preventing foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the Socket of the Pipe.

[0040] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the first and second splitting members can be attached to or removed from the pipe by opening and closing a pair of claws provided on the attachment of the work machine. This makes it possible to attach or remove the insertion port protection member more efficiently. [Effects of the Invention]

[0041] An insertion opening protection device according to one embodiment of the invention includes: a first half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover a part of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe; a second half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the remaining part of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe other than the part of the outer surface; and a drive unit which brings the first half-split member and the second half-split member closer together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, and separates the first half-split member and the second half-split member which form a ring so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe so as to allow the pipe to be inserted and removed.

[0042] An insertion opening protection member according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover a part of the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, and a second split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the remaining part of the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe other than the part mentioned above. The first split member and the second split member are configured to be attached to a pair of claws of an attachment that is attached to the tip of the arm of a work machine, and by opening and closing the pair of claws, the first split member and the second split member are brought closer together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, or the first split member and the second split member which form a ring so as to cover the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe are separated so as to allow the pipe to be removed.

[0043] A pipe joining method according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a pipe fitting member attachment step of attaching a pipe fitting protective member to the outer surface of the pipe fitting, the fitting member being attached to the outer surface of the pipe fitting; a pipe installation step of installing the pipe with the fitting protective member attached in a groove where the pipe to be joined is located; a pipe fitting protective member removal step of removing the pipe fitting protective member from the pipe installed in the groove; and a joining step of joining the pipe to be joined. The pipe fitting protective member includes a first half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover a part of the outer surface of the pipe fitting; and a second half-split member which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe so as to cover the remaining part of the outer surface of the pipe fitting other than the part of the outer surface. In the pipe fitting protective member attachment step, the first half-split member and the second half-split member are brought closer together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, covering the outer surface of the pipe fitting. In the insertion opening protection member removal step, the first and second split members, which form a ring so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, are separated so as to allow the pipe to be removed, and then the first and second split members are removed from the pipe.

[0044] This prevents foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface of the pipe insertion opening during joining work in the groove, and also allows the insertion opening protection member to be easily attached to and detached from the pipe insertion opening. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0045] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a socket protection member and socket protection device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a front view showing the socket protection device in the closed position. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a front view showing the socket protection device in the open position. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates the operation of a work machine. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a front view showing the pipe gripping unit with the first and second split members attached. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a front view showing how the first and second split members are brought closer together in the axial direction of the pipe to form a ring during the insertion protection member installation process. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the joining process. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a socket protection member and socket protection device according to a modified example 1 of Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of a socket protection member and socket protection device according to a modified example 1 of Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0046] The following describes each embodiment with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those parts will not be repeated. Note that the dimensions of the components in each drawing do not faithfully represent the dimensions of the actual components or the dimensional ratios of each component.

[0047] In the following explanation, axial direction A refers to the direction in which the axis P1 of pipe W1 extends. In axial direction A, A1 is the direction in which pipe W1 is inserted into the pipe to be joined W2.

[0048] Furthermore, in the following explanation, the expressions "fix," "connect," and "attach" (hereinafter referred to as "fixing, etc.") include not only cases where components are directly fixed to each other, but also cases where they are fixed to each other via other components. In other words, in the following explanation, the expressions "fixing, etc." include both direct and indirect fixing of components to each other.

[0049] [Embodiment 1] Figure 1 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the socket protection member 1 and socket protection device 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 is a front view showing the socket protection device 100 in the closed state. Figure 3 is a front view showing the socket protection device 100 in the open state.

[0050] (Insertion port protection component) Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the insertion port protection member 1 is a member that protects the outer surface W111 of the insertion port W11 of the pipe W1.

[0051] The Socket W11 includes not only the open end edge of the Socket W11 of pipe W1, but also the portion of pipe W1 that is inserted into the receiving end W21 of the pipe to be joined W2 (see Figure 4, etc.). Similarly, the Receiving End W21 includes not only the open end edge of the Receiving End W21 of the pipe to be joined W2, but also the portion of pipe W2 into which the Socket W11 of pipe W1 is inserted.

[0052] The pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined, which has a socket W21 into which the spigot W11 of pipe W1 is inserted, are, for example, water pipes. Pipes W1 and W2 may be other types of pipes, such as sewer pipes, agricultural water pipes, or gas pipes. Pipes W1 and W2 may be ductile cast iron pipes, other metal pipes, or resin pipes.

[0053] The socket protection member 1 is used by being attached to an attachment mounted on the tip 1011 of the arm 1010 of the work machine 1000, which will be described in more detail later. The socket protection member 1 includes a first split member 10, a second split member 20, cushioning members 31 and 32, and connecting members 50 and 60.

[0054] The first split member 10 extends in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 so as to cover a portion of the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. Furthermore, the first split member 10 is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 so as to cover a portion of the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. The first split member 10 opens in the other direction WD2 in the width direction.

[0055] The second split member 20 extends in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 so as to cover the remaining portion of the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1, excluding a portion of it. The second split member 20 is also arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 so as to cover the remaining portion of the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1, excluding a portion of it. The second split member 20 is open in one direction WD1 in the width direction.

[0056] The first split member 10 and the second split member 20 may be made of, for example, a synthetic resin member or a metal member, or a combination of synthetic resin members or metal members.

[0057] As described above, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are each arc-shaped. The inner diameter of the first split member 10 is larger than the outer diameter of the second split member 20. Also, the length of the chord of the arc of the first split member 10 is larger than the length of the chord of the arc of the second split member 20. For this reason, the second split member 20 can be placed on the inner circumference side of the first split member 10. In this way, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 can form an annulus.

[0058] When the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are brought together to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1, the ends 11 and 12 of the first split member 10 in the circumferential direction C overlap with the ends 21 and 22 of the second split member 20 in the circumferential direction C in the radial direction B. Therefore, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20, in a ring-like state, cover the entire circumference of the outer surface W111 of the insertion opening W11.

[0059] The first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are configured to be attachable to a pair of gripping claws (claws) 1121 and 1122 of a pipe gripping unit 1100, which is an attachment mounted on the tip 1011 of the arm 1010 of the work machine 1000. Furthermore, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are configured to operate in accordance with the opening and closing of the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122. Details of this operation will be described later.

[0060] In the above configuration, when the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are brought close together so as to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1, both ends 11 and 12 of the first split member 10 cover both ends 21 and 22 of the second split member 20.

[0061] Therefore, in the above configuration, since there is no joint between the first split member 10 and the second split member 20, it becomes difficult for foreign matter to enter between the first split member 10 and the second split member 20.

[0062] The buffer members 31 and 32 are positioned between the ends 11 and 12 of the first split member 10 and the ends 21 and 22 of the second split member 20, with the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 forming an annular ring that covers the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0063] The buffer members 31 and 32 are attached to the inner circumference of both ends 11 and 12 of the first split member 10. The buffer members 31 and 32 extend in the axial direction A.

[0064] In the above configuration, when the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are brought close together to form a ring, the buffer members 31 and 32 can seal the gap between the first split member 10 and the second split member 20. This prevents foreign matter from entering through the gap between the first split member 10 and the second split member 20.

[0065] The connecting members 50 and 60 connect the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100, which acts as a drive unit, to the first split member 10 and the second split member 20. In detail, one end of the connecting members 50 and 60 is connected to the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 and extends in the axial direction A of the pipe W1. The other end of the connecting members 50 and 60 is connected to the first split member 10 and the second split member 20.

[0066] The connecting members 50 and 60 have axially extended portions 51 and 61 and intersectingly extended portions 52 and 62.

[0067] The axially extended portions 51 and 61 extend in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 and are connected at one end to a pair of gripping claw portions 1121 and 1122.

[0068] The intersecting extensions 52 and 62 are connected at one end to the other end of the axial extensions 51 and 61 and extend in a vertical direction intersecting the axial direction A, and are connected at the other end to the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20.

[0069] The intersecting extensions 52 and 62 are configured to be expandable and contractible in the radial direction B. The intersecting extensions 52 and 62 can be made of, for example, shock absorbers that absorb impacts in the radial direction B. The intersecting extensions 52 and 62 function as displacement-permissible mechanisms that allow the movement of the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20 as they are displaced in the radial direction B of the pipe W1.

[0070] Furthermore, the intersecting extensions 52 and 62 may support the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20 so that they can rotate around a rotation axis parallel to the axial direction A at at least one of their ends.

[0071] (Working machinery) Figure 4 illustrates the operation of the work machine 1000. Referring to Figure 4, the work machine 1000 has an arm 1010. The work machine 1000 is, for example, a mini backhoe, which is a construction machine for excavation. Various attachments can be connected to the tip 1011 of the arm 1010. The work machine 1000 can perform various construction and work tasks by changing the attachment connected to the tip 1011 of the arm 1010. A pipe gripping unit 1100 is connected to the tip 1011 of the arm 1010 of the work machine 1000.

[0072] The work machine 1000 may be any construction machine other than a mini backhoe, and it may be any machine with any configuration as long as it is capable of operating the pipe gripping unit 1100.

[0073] (Pipe gripping unit and insertion port protection device) The pipe gripping unit 1100 grips the insertion end W11 side of the pipe W1. The pipe gripping unit 1100 has a support part 1110 and a pipe gripping part 1120.

[0074] The support portion 1110 supports the pipe gripping portion 1120 with respect to the tip portion 1011 of the arm 1010, in a state where the pipe gripping portion 1120 can open and close the gripping claw portions 1121 and 1122.

[0075] The pipe gripping section 1120 is configured to grip the pipe W1. More specifically, the pipe gripping section 1120 has a pair of gripping claw sections 1121 and 1122, a pair of claw drive connecting sections 1123 and 1124, and a claw drive section 1125 as an actuator.

[0076] The pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 grip the pipe W1 from above. In particular, as shown in Figure 5, when viewing the pipe gripping portion 1120 in the other axial direction A2, the gripping claw 1121 is located on one side WD1 in the width direction, and the gripping claw 1122 is located on the other side WD2 in the width direction.

[0077] The pair of claw drive connecting parts 1123 and 1124 each extend in the vertical direction and connect the pair of gripping claw parts 1121 and 1122 to the claw drive part 1125. Specifically, the lower ends of the pair of claw drive connecting parts 1123 and 1124 are connected to the pair of gripping claw parts 1121 and 1122, and the upper ends are connected to the claw drive part 1125. The vertical central portions of the pair of claw drive connecting parts 1123 and 1124 are supported by the support part 1110 so as to be rotatable around rotation axes P1123 and P1124 which are parallel to the axial direction A.

[0078] The claw drive unit 1125 is, for example, an actuator that can extend and retract in the width direction WD. The claw drive unit 1125 can be made up of a hydraulic cylinder or the like. Therefore, when the claw drive unit 1125 extends and retracts in the width direction WD, the pair of claw drive connecting units 1123 and 1124 rotate around the rotation axis P1123 and P1124 in the central part.

[0079] For example, when the claw drive unit 1125 retracts in the width direction WD, the lower ends of the pair of claw drive connecting units 1123 and 1124 move outward in the width direction around the rotation axis P1123 and P1124 of the central part. As a result, the lower ends of the pair of gripping claw units 1121 and 1122 move outward in the width direction and open.

[0080] On the other hand, as the claw drive unit 1125 extends in the width direction WD, the lower ends of the pair of claw drive connecting units 1123 and 1124 move inward in the width direction around the rotation axis P1123 and P1124 of the central part. As a result, the pair of gripping claw units 1121 and 1122 move inward in the width direction and enter a closed state.

[0081] The claw drive unit 1125 is driven, for example, by hydraulic pressure supplied from the work machine 1000. That is, the pipe gripping unit 1120 is driven by a driving force supplied in response to operation from the work machine 1000. Note that the claw drive unit 1125 is not limited to being driven by hydraulic pressure, but may also be driven, for example, by electricity supplied from the work machine 1000 or from outside the work machine 1000.

[0082] The Socket Protection Device 100 includes a Socket Protection Member 1, which includes a first split member 10 and a second split member 20, and a pipe gripping unit 1100 as a drive unit. As described above, one end of the connecting members 50 and 60 of the Socket Protection Member 1 is connected to a pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100.

[0083] In the above configuration, as shown in Figure 2, the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122, as part of the drive unit, when in a closed state, bring the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 closer together to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1, covering the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. Also, as shown in Figure 3, the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122, as part of the drive unit, when moved from a closed state to an open state, separate the first split member 10 and the second split member 20, which form a ring to cover the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1, so that the pipe W1 can be inserted and removed.

[0084] In the above configuration, the pipe gripping unit 1100, acting as the drive unit, brings the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 closer together so that they form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1, thereby covering the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. As a result, the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 can be protected by the first split member 10 and the second split member 20. This prevents foreign matter from adhering to the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 during the joining operation between the pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined, which has a receiving opening W21 into which the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 is inserted.

[0085] Furthermore, the pipe gripping unit 1100, acting as a drive unit, separates the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20, which form a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1, so that the pipe W1 can be inserted and removed. This allows the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20 to be easily attached to and removed from the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0086] Therefore, the above-described socket protection device 100 can prevent foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface W111 of the socket W11 of the pipe W1 during joining work in the groove, and can also realize a socket protection device 100 that can be easily attached to and detached from the socket W11 of the pipe W1.

[0087] Furthermore, in the Socket Protection Device 100, the first half-splitting member 10 and the second half-splitting member 20 can be attached to or removed from the pipe W1 by opening and closing the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100, which is an attachment to the work machine 1000. This makes it possible to realize an Socket Protection Device 100 that utilizes the operation of the pipe gripping unit 1100, which is an attachment to the work machine 1000.

[0088] (Method of joining pipes) Referring to Figures 2 to 7, a pipe joining method S1 for joining a pipe W1 and a pipe to be joined, which has a receiving end W21 into which the insertion end W11 of pipe W1 is inserted, will be described.

[0089] (Claw attachment process) Figure 5 is a front view showing the pipe gripping unit 1100 with the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 attached. Referring to Figure 5, first, in the claw attachment step S11 of the pipe joining method S1, the first split member 10 is attached to the gripping claw portion 1121 of the pipe gripping unit 1100 by the connecting member 50, and the second split member 20 is attached to the gripping claw portion 1122 by the connecting member 60.

[0090] (Installation process for socket protection component) Figure 6 is a front view showing how the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20 are brought closer together in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 during the insertion protection member installation process S12.

[0091] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in the insertion opening protection member attachment step S12 of the pipe joining method S1, an insertion opening protection member 1, which protects the outer surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1, is attached to the outer surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0092] In the insertion opening protection member installation step S12, first, as shown in Figure 5, the pipe gripping unit 1100 to which the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are attached is positioned above the pipe W1 placed on the ground G1 (step S121). When the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 are in the open position, the distance L11 between the lower part of the first split member 10 and the lower part of the second split member 20 is, for example, larger than the outer diameter of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. Therefore, the distance L11 between the lower part of the first split member 10 and the lower part of the second split member 20 is large enough for the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 to pass through in the vertical direction.

[0093] Next, as shown in Figure 6, the pipe gripping unit 1100, to which the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are attached, is lowered to the pipe W1 (step S122). Since the distance L11 between the lower part of the first split member 10 and the lower part of the second split member 20 is larger than the outer diameter of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1, the lower parts of the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 do not come into contact with the upper part of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 when the pipe gripping unit 1100 is lowered. This prevents the lubricant or the like applied to the outer surface of the insertion opening from peeling off.

[0094] Therefore, the distance L12 between the lower parts of the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 widens to more than the outer diameter of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. As a result, the distance L12 between the lower parts of the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 widens to a size that allows the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 to pass through in the vertical direction.

[0095] Furthermore, with the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 closed, the pipe gripping unit 1100 is lowered to a predetermined position POS where it can grip the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0096] With the pipe gripping unit 1100 positioned at a predetermined position POS, the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 are moved from an open state to a closed state, and the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 is gripped by the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122.

[0097] When the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 are closed, bringing the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 closer together so that they form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 come into contact with the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0098] As described above, the intersecting extensions 52 and 62 function as displacement-permissible mechanisms that allow the movement of the first and second split members 10 and 20 outward in the radial direction B of the pipe W1. Therefore, the intersecting extensions 52 and 62 are displaced outward in the radial direction B of the pipe W1 when the first and second split members 10 and 20 come into contact with the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0099] Furthermore, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 may rotate around the other end of the intersecting extension portion 52, 62 by contacting the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. As a result, the lower part of the first split member 10 and the lower part of the second split member 20 move outward in the width direction WD.

[0100] Furthermore, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are assembled to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction A of the pipe W1, while allowing movement of the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 in the radial direction B by the intersecting extension portions 52 and 62. As a result, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 cover the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0101] As a result, the pipe W1 is held in the gripping position as shown in Figure 2. This completes the insertion point protection member installation process S12.

[0102] According to the above configuration, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 can be smoothly moved along the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 while being displaced in the radial direction B of the pipe W1, thereby forming a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0103] Therefore, the process of attaching the Socket Protection Device 100 to the outer surface W111 of the Socket W11 of the pipe W1 can be made more efficient.

[0104] (Pipe installation process) Next, referring again to Figure 4, in the pipe installation process S13, the insertion end protection member 1 is attached, and the pipe W1, which is gripped by the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122, is installed in the groove G2 where the pipe to be joined W2 is located by the pipe gripping unit 1100 of the work machine 1000.

[0105] Furthermore, for example, a joining device 2000 may be placed at the receiving end W21 of the pipe to be joined W2. The joining device 2000 has a support member 2010 that extends in the other axial direction A2 at the lower part of the receiving end W21.

[0106] The working machine 1000 may position the central axis of the pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined W2 by positioning the pipe W1 from above the support member 2010 of the joining device 2000 with respect to the upper surface of the support member 2010. The tip of the support member 2010 in the axial direction A is located in the space between the pipe gripping portion 1120 of the pipe gripping unit 1100 and the insertion opening protection member 1. This allows the tip of the support member 2010 to support the lower part of the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0107] (Process for removing the socket protection component) Referring again to Figures 2 and 3 in order, in the insertion point protection member removal step S14, the insertion point protection member 1 is removed from the pipe W1 installed in the groove G2.

[0108] In detail, in the insertion opening protection member removal step S14, the gripping claws 1121 and 1122, which are in a closed state as shown in Figure 2 (step S141), are opened in the groove G2 as shown in Figure 3, thereby releasing the grip on the pipe W1. At the same time, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20, which form a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1, are separated so that the pipe W1 can be removed (step S142). Subsequently, the pipe gripping unit 1100 is moved out of the groove G2, thereby removing the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 from the pipe W1.

[0109] This completes the insertion port protection member removal process S14.

[0110] (Joining process) Figure 7 shows the joining process S15. Referring to Figure 7, in joining process S15, with the pipe W1 supported by the support member 2010, the pipe W1 is moved in one axial direction A1, thereby joining the pipe W1 with the pipe to be joined W2.

[0111] The joining of pipe W1 and pipe to be joined W2 may be performed by a pipe moving unit 2050, which inserts the insertion port W11 of pipe W1 into the receiving port W21 of pipe to be joined W2 to perform the joining. The pipe moving unit 2050 is, for example, part of a joining device 2000. The pipe moving unit 2050 is attached together with the joining device 2000 to the receiving port W21 side of pipe to be joined W2. The pipe moving unit 2050 has an arm 2051 that moves pipe W1 in one axial direction A1. The arm 2051 extends in the other axial direction A2. The end of the arm 2051 in the other axial direction A2 engages with a projection W113 of pipe W1. The projection W113 is located at the open end of the insertion port W11 of pipe W1 and protrudes outward from the outer circumferential surface W111.

[0112] The pipe moving unit 2050 connects the pipes by moving the arm 2051, which is engaged with the projection W113 of the pipe W1, in one axial direction A1, thereby inserting the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1 into the receiving opening W21 of the pipe to be joined W2.

[0113] The pipe joining method S1 is completed by the above steps. Note that the joining of pipe W1 and pipe W2 may be performed manually.

[0114] According to the pipe joining method S1 described above, the insertion opening protection member 1 can be easily attached to and detached from the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. Therefore, the pipe joining work can be performed efficiently while preventing foreign matter from adhering to the outer surface W111 of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1.

[0115] Furthermore, in the pipe joining method S1 described above, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 can be attached to or removed from the pipe W1 by opening and closing the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100 of the work machine 1000. This makes it possible to attach or remove the Socket Protection Member 1 more efficiently.

[0116] Furthermore, the Socket Protection Device 100 has connecting members 50 and 60, one end of which is connected to the pipe gripping unit 1100 as a drive unit and extends in the axial direction A of the pipe W1, and the other end of which is connected to the first split member 10 and the second split member 20.

[0117] According to the above configuration, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 can be positioned at a distance in the axial direction A from the pipe gripping unit 1100. In other words, according to the above configuration, in the pipe joining operation of the pipe W1, the pipe gripping unit 1100, which acts as a drive unit, can be positioned at a distance in the axial direction A from the opening end of the insertion port W11 of the pipe W1.

[0118] Therefore, in the axial direction A, a space can be provided between the pipe gripping unit 1100 and the first split member 10 and the second split member 20. This allows another machine or the like to be placed in the space. For example, a part of a joining device 2000 that joins pipe W1 and pipe to be joined W2 can be placed in the space.

[0119] Therefore, the design flexibility of the work machine 1000 or joining device 2000 can be improved.

[0120] Furthermore, the connecting members 50 and 60 each have an axial extension portion 51 and 61 that extends in the axial direction A of the pipe W1 and is connected to the pipe gripping unit 1100 at one end, and an intersecting extension portion 52 and 62 that is connected to the other end of the axial extension portion 51 and 61 at one end, extends in a direction intersecting the axial direction A, and is connected to the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20 at the other end. The intersecting extension portions 52 and 62 are configured so that the first half-split member 10 and the second half-split member 20 can swing around a rotation axis that extends in the axial direction A at at least one of the one or the other end.

[0121] In the above configuration, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 swing about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction A at at least one end or the other end of the intersecting extension portions 52 and 62 of the connecting members 50 and 60. As a result, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 can swing in accordance with the opening and closing operation of the pair of gripping claw portions 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100. Therefore, the pipe W1 can be easily attached to and detached.

[0122] [Example 1] Figure 8 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the socket protection member 2 and socket protection device 200 according to Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 9 is a front view showing the schematic configuration of the socket protection member 2 and socket protection device 200 according to Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The socket protection member 2 and socket protection device 200 according to Modification 1 differ from the socket protection member 1 and socket protection device 100 according to Embodiment 1 in that they have end covers 81 and 82. In the following description, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0123] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the socket protection member 2 includes a first split member 10, a second split member 20, buffer members 31 and 32, connecting members 50 and 60, and end covers 81 and 82. The socket protection device 200 includes the first split member 10, the second split member 20, and a pipe gripping unit 1100 as a drive unit. One end of the connecting members 50 and 60 of the socket protection member 2 is connected to a pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100.

[0124] The end covers 81 and 82 each cover a portion of the open end of the insertion port W11 of the pipe W1. The end covers 81 and 82 extend radially inward from one axial edge A1 of the first half-piece member 10 and the second half-piece member 20.

[0125] The end covers 81 and 82 may extend to the inner circumference of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. The end cover 81 of the first split member 10 may be located in one axial direction A1 further than the end cover 82 of the second split member 20. The end cover 81 of the first split member 10 and the end cover 82 of the second split member 20 may partially overlap in the circumferential direction C when viewed in the axial direction A. For example, the end cover 81 of the first split member 10 and the end cover 82 of the second split member 20 may overlap at both ends 11 and 12 of the first split member 10 and both ends 21 and 22 of the second split member 20 when viewed in the axial direction A.

[0126] The end covers 81 and 82 may cover the entire circumference of the opening end of the pipe W11 when viewed in the axial direction A, or they may cover only a portion of it. The covering area of ​​the opening end of the end cover 81 of the first half-member 10 may be larger or smaller than the covering area of ​​the opening end of the end cover 82 of the second half-member 20. The covering area of ​​the opening end of the end cover 81 of the first half-member 10 and the covering area of ​​the opening end of the end cover 82 of the second half-member 20 may be the same.

[0127] In the above configuration, the end covers 81 and 82 can cover a portion of the open end of the insertion port W11 of the pipe W1, thereby preventing or suppressing the entry of foreign matter.

[0128] [Other embodiments] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments described above are merely examples for carrying out the present invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it is possible to carry out the invention by appropriately modifying the embodiments described above without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0129] In Embodiment 1 and Modification 1 (hereinafter referred to as "Embodiment, etc."), the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 are each composed of a single part. However, the first split member and the second split member may each be composed of multiple parts. For example, the first split member and the second split member may be composed of multiple parts that are divided in the circumferential direction.

[0130] Although not specifically described in the above embodiments, a lubricant may be applied to the outer surface of the pipe's spigot before the spigot protection member installation process.

[0131] In the above embodiments, the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping portion 1120 grip the pipe W1 from above. However, the pair of gripping claws may grip the pipe from directions other than above.

[0132] In the above embodiments, when the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100 are in the open position, the distance L11 between the lower part of the first split member 10 and the lower part of the second split member 20 is, for example, greater than the outer diameter of the insertion opening W11 of the pipe W1. However, when the pair of gripping claws are in the open position, the distance between the lower part of the first split member and the lower part of the second split member may be smaller than the outer diameter of the insertion opening of the pipe.

[0133] Furthermore, during the lowering of the pipe gripping unit in the insertion opening protection member installation process, the lower parts of the first and second split members may come into contact with the upper part of the pipe insertion opening. This allows the first and second split members to rotate around the other end of the intersecting extension. As a result of the lower parts of the first and second split members coming into contact with the upper part of the pipe insertion opening, the lower parts of the first and second split members may move outward in the width direction. This causes the distance between the lower parts of the first and second split members to widen beyond the outer diameter of the pipe insertion opening. Therefore, the distance between the lower parts of the first and second split members becomes large enough for the pipe insertion opening to pass through vertically.

[0134] In the embodiments described above, the pipe gripping portion 1120 of the pipe gripping unit 1100 is driven by hydraulic pressure supplied from the work machine 1000. However, the pipe gripping portion may also be driven by other energy sources such as electricity.

[0135] In the embodiments described above, the Socket Protection Devices 100, 200 include Socket Protection Members 1, 2 and a Pipe Gripping Unit 1100. However, the Socket Protection Device does not necessarily have to include a pipe gripping unit. For example, the Socket Protection Device may have a drive unit that brings the first and second split members closer together to form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, covering the outer circumferential surface of the Socket of the pipe, while also having a drive unit that separates the first and second split members, which form a ring covering the outer circumferential surface of the Socket of the pipe, so that the pipe can be inserted and removed. The Socket Protection Device may include a part of the pipe gripping unit as the drive unit.

[0136] In the above embodiments, the inner diameter of the first split member 10 is larger than the outer diameter of the second split member 20. However, the inner diameter of the first split member may be smaller than the outer diameter of the second split member. The inner diameters of the first split member and the second split member may be the same.

[0137] In the above-described embodiment, the first split member 10 and the second split member 20 form a ring, and the ends 11 and 12 of the first split member 10 in the circumferential direction C overlap with the ends 21 and 22 of the second split member 20 in the circumferential direction C in the radial direction B. However, the ends of the first split member and the second split member do not necessarily have to overlap in the radial direction B.

[0138] In the embodiments described above, the buffer members 31 and 32 are attached to the inner circumference of both ends 11 and 12 of the first split member 10. However, the buffer members may be attached to only one end or the other end in the circumferential direction of the first split member, or to positions other than both ends. The buffer members may be attached to the entire inner circumference of the first split member. The buffer members may be attached to the outer circumference of the second split member. The buffer members may be attached to part or all of the inner circumference of the second split member. The buffer members may be attached to both the first split member and the second split member.

[0139] In the above embodiments, the connecting members 50 and 60 connect the pair of gripping claws 1121 and 1122 of the pipe gripping unit 1100, which acts as a drive unit, to the first split member 10 and the second split member 20. However, the drive unit and the first split member and the second split member do not necessarily have to be connected by a connecting member that extends in the axial direction. The drive unit may move the first split member and the second split member by a member other than the connecting member.

[0140] In the above modified example 1, the end covers 81 and 82 extend radially inward from one axial edge A1 of the first half-member 10 and the second half-member 20 in the radial direction B. However, the end cover may extend axially from one axial edge in the same direction as it extends radially inward. This results in the end cover having a tapered structure with a smaller inner diameter towards the axial direction. The end cover may also have a return structure extending into the pipe from the radially inward end. This allows the end cover to cover the inner circumference of the pipe. The return structure may also have a tapered structure with a smaller inner diameter towards the other axial direction. [Industrial applicability]

[0141] The present invention can be used in a pipe insertion end protection device, insertion end protection member, and pipe joining method for joining pipes to be joined. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0142] 1, 2: Insertion port protection member 10: First half-split member 11, 12: Ends 20: Second half-cut member 21, 22: End 31, 32: Cushioning material 50, 60: Connecting members 51, 61: Axial extension part 52, 62: Intersecting extension section 81, 82: End cover 100, 200: Socket protection device 1000: Working machinery 1010: Arm 1011:Tip 1100: Pipe gripping unit 1110: Support part 1120: Pipe gripping part 1121, 1122: Gripping claw part 1123, 1124: Claw drive coupling part 1125: Claw drive unit 2000:Joining equipment 2010: Support member 2050: Pipe relocation unit 2051: Arm G1: Ground G2: Groove W1: tube W11: Socket W111: Outer surface W113:Protrusion W2: Joined pipe W21: Socket

Claims

1. A socket protection device that protects the outer surface of the socket of a pipe, A first split member, which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, is provided so as to cover a part of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, A second half-split member, which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, is provided to cover the remaining portion of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, excluding a portion of the outer surface of the pipe. A drive unit brings the first and second split members closer together so that they form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, covering the outer surface of the pipe's opening, while separating the first and second split members, which form a ring so as to cover the outer surface of the pipe's opening, so that the pipe can be inserted and removed. Having, Plug-in protection device.

2. In the socket protection device according to claim 1, The inner diameter of one of the first half-member or the second half-member is larger than the outer diameter of the other half of the first half-member or the second half-member. When the first and second halves of the first half-member are brought together so that they form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, the circumferential ends of the second half-member overlap in the radial direction with the circumferential ends of the second half-member. Plug-in protection device.

3. In the socket protection device according to claim 2, With the first and second split members forming a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, the device further includes a buffer member located between both ends of the first split member and both ends of the second split member. The cushioning member is attached to the inner circumference of one of the first and second split members, which is located on the outer circumference. Plug-in protection device.

4. In the socket protection device according to claim 1, At least one of the first half-split member and the second half-split member is The drive unit has a displacement-allowing mechanism that allows the movement of the first and second split members, which are displaced in the radial direction of the pipe, Plug-in protection device.

5. In the socket protection device according to claim 1, At least one of the first half-split member and the second half-split member is The inner circumference further includes an end cover that covers a portion of the open end of the insertion port of the pipe. Plug-in protection device.

6. In the socket protection device according to claim 1, The aforementioned drive unit is A pair of openable and closable claws provided on an attachment that is mounted to the end of the arm of a work machine, An actuator that opens and closes the aforementioned claw portion, It has, The opening and closing of the pair of claws by the actuator brings the first half-member and the second half-member closer together so that they form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, or The first and second split members, which form a ring so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, are spaced apart so that the pipe can be removed. Plug-in protection device.

7. In the socket protection device according to claim 6, The connecting member has one end connected to the drive unit and extending in the axial direction of the pipe, and the other end connected to the first split member and the second split member. Plug-in protection device.

8. In the socket protection device according to claim 7, The aforementioned connecting member is An axial extension portion that extends in the axial direction of the pipe and is connected at one end to the drive unit, A cross-directional extension portion is connected at one end to the other end of the axial extension portion and extends in a direction intersecting the axial direction, and is connected at the other end to the first half-split member and the second half-split member, It has, The cross-directional extension portion is configured such that the first half-split member and the second half-split member can swing around a rotation axis extending in the axial direction at at least one of the one or the other end. Plug-in protection device.

9. A socket protection member that protects the outer surface of the socket of a pipe, A first split member, which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, is provided so as to cover a part of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, A second half-split member, which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, is provided to cover the remaining portion of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, excluding a portion of the outer surface of the pipe. It has, The first half-split member and the second half-split member are It is configured to be attachable to each of the pair of claws on an attachment that is mounted to the end of the arm of a work machine, By opening and closing the pair of claws, The first and second split members are brought close together so as to form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, covering the outer surface of the pipe's opening, or The first and second split members, which form a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, are spaced apart so that the pipe can be removed. Plug-in protection component.

10. A method for joining pipes, comprising joining a pipe and a pipe to be joined having a socket into which the insertion end of the pipe is inserted, A step of attaching a socket protection member to the outer surface of the socket of the pipe, A pipe installation step involves installing the pipe to which the insertion protection member is attached into the groove where the pipe to be joined is located, A step of removing the insertion opening protective member from the pipe installed in the groove, A joining step of joining the aforementioned pipe to the pipe to be joined, It has, The aforementioned insertion port protection member is A first split member, which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, is provided so as to cover a part of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, A second half-split member, which is arc-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, is provided to cover the remaining portion of the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, excluding a portion of the outer surface of the pipe. It has, In the aforementioned insertion port protection member installation process, Bringing the first half-piece member and the second half-piece member closer together so that they form a ring when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, and covering the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, In the step of removing the insertion port protective member, After separating the first and second split members, which form a ring that covers the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, so that the pipe can be removed, the first and second split members are removed from the pipe. Methods for joining pipes.

11. In the pipe joining method according to claim 10, The attachment is provided on the tip of the arm of a work machine, and further comprises a claw attachment step of attaching the first split member to one of a pair of openable and closable claws, and attaching the second split member to the other, In the aforementioned insertion port protection member installation process, By closing the open claw portion, the pipe is gripped, and the first half-split member and the second half-split member are brought closer together so as to form an annular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe, covering the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe. In the step of removing the insertion port protective member, By opening the closed claw portion, the grip on the pipe is released, and the first and second split members, which form a ring so as to cover the outer surface of the insertion opening of the pipe, are separated so as to allow the pipe to be removed, and then the attachment is moved out of the groove, thereby removing the first and second split members from the pipe. Methods for joining pipes.

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